Green

A century-old furniture factory gets a living wall biofilter for better air

Nov. 20, 2015
2 min read

Enviro-Stewards of Elmira, Ontario just completed a 2,500 square foot renovation to double their office space on the third floor of a 100-year old furniture factory. Having outgrown their existing space, the environmental consulting firm found opportunity for expansion into the adjacent space. President Bruce Taylor set out to preserve as many historical features as possible, including an exposed brick wall and structural steel beams; he also repurposed the 100-year old windows into interior office walls. Energy efficient windows and a bank of standing desks bring the space into the 21st century.

In terms of providing improved air quality and energy conservation, Enviro-Stewards installed a Nedlaw Living Wall Biofilter. During renovations, the team integrated the biofilter into the new HVAC system to provide clean air directly to the offices. The 5' x 6' biofilter not only provides virtual outside air to the space, it will also reduce energy costs by reducing fresh air intake requirements. A rain barrel will collect rooftop rainwater and serve to feed the hydroponic wall. 

Plus, the living wall is a great visual focal point and symbol of this firm's mission.

Regardless of their size, all Nedlaw Living Wall Biofilters perform at the same level in terms of removing pollutants from the air. According to Dr. Alan Darlington, a small biofilter is equally effective in removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from indoor air; watch him present research on Nedlaw Living Wall performance in the field:

http://www.nedlawlivingwalls.com/wp-content/uploads/Air-Quality-Impact-Research-Findings.mp4

Founded in 2000, Enviro-Stewards is an engineering company and Certified B Corporation working internationally to help clients conserve resources and address environmental liabilities.

ABOUT NEDLAW LIVING WALL BIOFILTERS

INFORMATION VIDEOS

Installation Options and Requirements                 

http://www.nedlawlivingwalls.com/wp-content/uploads/Installation-Options-and-Requirements.mp4

Energy Benefits of a Living Wall Biofilter

http://www.nedlawlivingwalls.com/wp-content/uploads/Energy-Benefits-of-a-Nedlaw-Living-Wall-Biofilter.mp4

 

Sign up for Building Design+Construction Newsletters